GRE General TestVerbal ReasoningHard
A biologist, studying evolutionary patterns, suggested that while a species might exhibit remarkable ______ in its physical traits for extended periods, genetic analyses often reveal a continuous, albeit subtle, process of adaptation occurring at the molecular level.
- Aplasticity
- Bvariability
- Cstasis
- Ddynamism
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. stasis
The sentence presents a contrast: 'remarkable ______ in its physical traits for extended periods' vs. 'a continuous, albeit subtle, process of adaptation occurring at the molecular level.' This implies that while the physical traits appear unchanging, there's underlying change. 'Stasis' means a period or state of inactivity or equilibrium. This fits the idea of physical traits appearing unchanging, even while adaptation occurs subtly at another level.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Plasticity means the quality of being easily shaped or molded, implying change, which contradicts 'remarkable ______ for extended periods'.
- B. Variability means lack of consistency or fixed pattern, implying change, which contradicts 'remarkable ______ for extended periods'.
- D. Dynamism means the quality of being characterized by vigorous activity and progress, implying change, which contradicts 'remarkable ______ for extended periods'.
Apparent Stability vs. Underlying Change
This concept involves identifying a word that describes an outward appearance of unchangingness or equilibrium, which is then contrasted with a deeper, continuous process of subtle alteration.
- Look for contrast indicators (e.g., 'while', 'albeit').
- Identify two levels or types of observation (e.g., 'physical traits' vs. 'molecular level').
- Characterize the superficial observation (e.g., 'remarkable ______ for extended periods').
- Choose a word that denotes apparent lack of change or equilibrium.
Memory trick: Still waters hide deep currents.